Janet Hamada

Board Chair

She / Her


Within our hearts we know the society we wish to live in. No one can take that vision from us. We are each of us keepers of that promise.
— George Takei

Janet is driven to make sure that all Oregonians are heard, particularly those who have been voiceless.

For nearly three decades, Janet has dedicated her efforts to improve the lives of her neighbors. A native of Chicago’s South Side neighborhood, she brings to Meyer a long history of work in the nonprofit sector, particularly in the areas of administration, refugee resettlement, employment, community organizing, economic development, health promotion and services for youth. Her current professional and community activities include serving as executive director of The Next Door, Inc., a social service organization that strengthens children and families and improves communities in seven counties in the mid-Columbia region.

“We become richer when we set a place at the table for everyone!”

Janet also serves on the board of the Mid-Columbia Medical Center. She joined Meyer’s board of trustees in 2017.